Why Hold Back?

Opinion - Reader Views

July 10, 2001

NASCAR drivers always seemed to me to be among the most competitive of athletes. So I was surprised that they would put that aside to allow another driver to win, for sentimental reasons. The gesture was considerate and heart-warming.

Viewing the race from the backstretch, though, I found that it was frustrating to see other drivers had the obvious ability to take the lead but then hold back. Unfortunately, the man they were attempting to honor by this behavior would never have approved. The Terminator would have never held back anything for any reason. If he could win, or advance a position, he would.